FAQ about our Gemstones

Q: What are four C's in gemstones & diamonds?

The Four C's - Color, Clarity, Cut & Carat Weight are the most important factors which determine the value & quality of a gemstone. Click here, to understand more about 4C's of Gemstones by visiting our dedicated page. Click here, to understand more about 4C's of Diamonds by visiting our dedicated page.

Q: How do I know if my gemstone or diamond is genuine?

For most buyers, it is not easy to tell whether a gemstone or diamond is natural, synthetic, imitation, or treated just by looking at it. Proper identification requires the trained eye of an experienced gemologist or diamantaire. That is why, as a buyer, you should always rely on trusted sellers, proper disclosure, and credible laboratory certification when making a purchase.

Q: What is Carat in Gemstones ?

Carat is the standard unit of weight around the world in which a gemstone or diamond is measured. Carat originated from the Latin word "Carratus" which relates to Carob Bean (seed). 1 Carat = 200 milligrams = 0.200 grams Note: Carat only defines the Weight of a gemstone or diamond. It is often confused with the Karat of Gold or other precious metals that defines the purity of the metal.

Frequently asked questions on Gemstones, Orders, Payments & Security

Sections:

Gemstones & Diamonds

Gemstone Authenticity

Astrology & Gems

Orders, Delivery & Return

Payments

Privacy & Data Security

Gemstones & Diamonds

What is the difference between a natural and synthetic gemstone?

Natural gemstones and diamonds take millions of years to form naturally inside the earth’s crust, but synthetic stones are mass-produced by humans in a laboratory within a few hours/days with chemical and physical properties exactly the same as natural gemstones. Synthetic gems and diamonds lack the super-natural powers & energy of Natural Gemstones therefore they are not recommended for astrological purposes.

The most important factor which is the cause of the difference in prices is the rarity factor. Natural Gemstones are very rare to find and as the natural resources deplete, it becomes even rarer. Whereas synthetic gemstones' production increases at a reducing cost as the technology advances. Therefore even though synthetic gems have improved color and clarity than natural, they are inexpensive.

What are inclusions in gemstones?

Inclusions are naturally formed minerals, fingerprints, fissures, or any other feature which are within the gemstone and are usually sculpt at the time formation under the earth's crust. These inclusions might sometimes reach the surface of the gemstone in the form of cavities, inverted crystals, etc. Following are a few examples of beautiful inclusions in Natural Gemstones-

Pic Courtesy: Lotus Gemology.

Why do we see inclusions in gemstones?

Natural gemstones are not produced in laboratories with perfection but are produced by our mother earth with an enormous amount of supernatural energy and powers within them. During its formation, crystals of other minerals often enter the gemstone. Natural gemstones are also often clouded by feathers which are known as fingerprints of nature. These birthmarks or inclusions also help in differentiating natural gemstones from synthetics. Colored Gemstone clarity types classified by Gemological Institute of America (GIA):

Type 1 - Usually Eye Clean
None of the colored gemstones in "Navratnas" come under this category

Type 2 - Usually Included
Sapphires, Rubies, Hessonite Garnet & Diamonds

Type 3 - Almost always included Included
Emeralds & Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye

Columbian Emerald
Visible Phase inclusions in finest quality Vivid Green Columbian Emerald.

Unheated Burma Ruby
Visible fingerprint inclusions in Unheated Burmese Ruby.

Therefore finding an Eye Clean Emerald is very much rarer than finding an Eye Clean Hessonite Garnet. Diamonds are graded based on the GIA Grading Scale which is different compared to colored gemstones. Corals and Pearls are organic gemstones which are always semi-translucent to opaque.

Click here to understand more about gemstones

What are four C's in gemstones & diamonds?

Is there anything beyond 4C's I should look for?

Absolutely Yes! There's much more than 4C's in gemstones & diamonds which are looked at by a Gemologist to grade & value a gem. Few of them are as follows:

> Enhancements: Most of the gemstones and diamonds are treated or enhanced by humans to improve the color and clarity of a gemstone. Treatments might improve the appearance of a gemstone, but Untreated gemstones win over the rarity factor. Therefore un-enhanced gemstones dominate the market price of any gemstone.

> Characteristics: This is one of the most important factors which differentiates colored gemstones from Diamonds. "Beauty is in the eyes of its Beholder" - The character of every gemstone is different and unique. A gemstone that might appeal to someone might not appeal to another person.

> Certification: A gemstone needs to be certified as there are many synthetics & natural imitations which closely resemble their natural counterparts. Moreover, most natural gemstones are also enhanced with treatments that are difficult to identify by a layman. Only an authentic certificate can assist a customer with all the details required.

> Origin: The origin of a gemstone also plays an important role many times. Few origins have a premium "Brand Value" compared to others due to many factors. Example: Kashmir Sapphire, Columbian Emeralds, and Burmese Rubies are priced way higher than similar-looking gemstones from other origins.

To learn more about these factors in detail, please visit Gem Insights > Gem Pricing.

What is a treatment? Why are gemstones enhanced or treated?

Enhancements/treatments are a valuable addition to the beauty of natural gemstones through various processes carried on by human beings to enhance the overall appearance of the gemstone. Generally, low and medium grade gemstones are enhanced / treated to improve the color, clarity, or durability of the gemstone. Therefore treated natural gemstones are priced far less compared to natural untreated gemstones.

Common enhancements include Dyeing, Lead / Glass Filling in Rubies & Sapphires, Resin filling in Emeralds & Corals, Thermal Enhancements with or without additives, etc.

How do I know if my gemstone or diamond is genuine?

Why are natural gemstones expensive?

When you truly consider their journey, natural gemstones may feel surprisingly affordable for what they are. Formed over millions of years within the earth, discovered in only a few parts of the world, carefully mined, sorted, cut, graded, and brought to you through expert hands - each gemstone carries a journey that is extraordinary in every sense.

Only a very small portion of mined material is fine enough to be called gem quality, and truly beautiful stones with good color, clarity, and size are rarer still. What you are holding is not something made in a factory in a day - it is a rare gift of nature shaped over ages.

In that light, the value of a natural gemstone goes far beyond its price. For a creation of nature that has travelled through millions of years to reach you, it can feel less like an expense and more like owning something timeless.

What is Carat in Gemstones ?

What is the difference between Carat & Ratti?

Carat (0.200mg) is the standard unit of weight measurement for gemstones and diamonds around the world. Whereas Ratti (0.1215mg / 0.182mg) is a traditional unit of measurement in India based on Ratti Seed, which was used a long time ago when accurate weighing scales did not exist. Ratti is still used by many astrologers in India to recommend gemstones.

We often recommend our customers to get the required gem weight in carats as there are few variations in Ratti (Sunari ratio & Pakki Ratti). Astrologers from different regions of India use different calculations for recommending gemstones.

1 Carat = 0.200 milligrams

1 Ratti = 0.1215 milligrams (Sunari Ratti)

1 Ratti = 0.1822 milligrams (Pakki Ratti)

I want to buy a natural gemstone. How much will it cost?

What is a CVD Diamond?

CVD Diamonds are synthetic/lab-grown diamonds manufactured using the CVD (Carbon Vapour Deposition) technology. As they are Synthetic Diamonds, their chemical & physical properties and appearance are exactly the same as Natural Diamonds. Even gemologists and diamantaires cannot differentiate between a Natural and Synthetic Diamond through naked eyes or basic testing equipment. Only advanced equipment can differentiate synthetic diamonds from a Natural one.

What are "conflict gemstones" or "blood diamonds"?

Gemstones and Diamonds are illegally mined in conflicted territories or war zones which either involves the exploitation of human resources at the mining locations or are sold to fund the war/fight. The violence isn’t just limited to the act of war and fighting. Children are forced to work at these locations forcefully 24/7, 365 days. Sexual violence against women is used as a means of war with rapes being rampant. Ironically such Diamonds are also termed as "Blood Diamonds" because directly or indirectly these funds are utilized towards the bloodshed of innocent people across the world. These gemstones and diamonds might be available at a reasonable price due to their conflicted origins.

The Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KPSC), certified by The United Nations for Diamonds has had reasonable success and is akin to a band-aid to the whole problem. India was one of the founder participants of this scheme when it was formed with a mandate from the United Nations Organisation, to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds.

Nine Gems being a member of GJEPC (Nodal Agency for KPCS in India), all Diamonds are responsibly sourced from legal routes via the Kimberly Process Certification Scheme. We are dedicated in our efforts to source all are colored gemstones from conflict-free channels and mining zones.

What is Cubic zirconia or American Diamond?

Gemstone Authenticity

Are your gemstones genuine & natural?

Do you provide a gem authenticity certificate?

Yes. Every gemstone you buy from us, come along with a lab report from Nine Gems. Moreover, Nine Gems' report verification system provides an additional level of assurance, allowing you to quickly and conveniently confirm that the information on your report matches what is archived in the Nine Gems report database, irrespective of the place from where you have purchased your gemstone.

Most of the exceptional gemstones are pre-certified from laboratories that are internationally recognized for their transparency, integrity & reliability. Solitaire Diamonds over 30 cents offered by us are graded by GIA.

Click here, to learn more about our Gemstone Certifications

Trusted Gemstone Certifications

Lab Reports from reputed gemological labs for transparency, confidence & traceability.

Is Nine Gems certificate reliable?

Astrology & Gemstones

Do Astrological Gemstones work?

Does Nine Gems provide astrological gem recomendation?

No. As of now, we do not provide any astrological services to our customers. We believe that astrology and gemology are two different aspects and provide the best results only when both aspects are analyzed individually by their own masters. Only an independent astrologer can provide an accurate, unbiased recommendation. And only a Gemologist can provide a genuine gemstone with all treatment disclosure & clarifications.

Click here, to learn more about our Gemstone Certifications

Trusted Gemstone Certifications

Lab Reports from reputed gemological labs for transparency, confidence & traceability.

What gem weight is recommended for astrological purposes?

Why do astrologers recommend gemstone in Ratti?

Are treated or enhanced gemstones recommended for astrology?

No. Enhanced gemstones lack the basic essence of a Natural Gemstone, therefore Nine Gems insists on adorning a gemstone free of any major treatments performed for astrological & talismanic jewelry. Minor enhancements like cutting & polishing of gemstones, colorless oil in Emeralds, a colorless polymer in corals, etc are accepted, but any treatment which transforms or changes the internal or external physical & chemical properties of a natural gemstone is not suitable for astrological segments.
Enhancement gemstones are absolutely fine to be worn as a part of gold & diamond studded fashion jewelry.

Order, Delivery & Returns

Where should I buy gemstones from?

We highly recommend you to buy gemstones from a gem merchant you trust. Here are a few tips to judge if the merchant is trustworthy:

> Is the merchant disclosing all details about the gemstone including the treatment or enhancements performed?

> Does the merchant have thorough knowledge and understanding about gemstones & diamonds? This is important, as most of the jewelers are not experts in gemstones & diamonds. They only buy gemstones without the knowledge and resell to a consumer with a markup. There is a high probability of the seller getting cheated himself if he's not aware of the gemstones, varieties, and latest treatments or enhancements.

> Is the gemstone certified from a genuine laboratory? Most of the small laboratories across India are what we call "Traders Labs". Which is the prime reason why Nine Gems established its laboratory for testing & certifying gemstones before they are marketed, to add on an additional level of assurance? If you are buying a gemstone which makes a difference to you, ask for a third-party certification from a renowned laboratory with complete disclosure about all major enhancements.

> If you are buying online, thoroughly browse their products. Ask, if the seller would dispatch the same gemstone as in a photograph or the photos are just "sample photographs" to approximately show the quality of the product. Many resellers have fake products listed which were never a part of their stock list.

All these checks are important as it is extremely difficult for a layman to diagnose whether a gemstone is fake or genuine.

Click here to read our Buyer’s Guide and understand more.

Do you also manufacture jewels or only sell loose gemstones?

How long does it take to ship my products?

Do you ship gemstones to my country ?

Is my shipment insured & safe?

Will you send the same gemstone ordered?

Yes, Every gemstone listed on our website is different from the other, with a unique product reference number. We will only ship the same gemstone which you have selected and ordered. This reference number is also mentioned in the Nine Gems Lab Report. If by any chance, the gemstone which you have ordered is unavailable, we will update you about the same. In such cases, we usually request customers to select another gemstone or provide a 100% refund as per the customer's wish.

Can I return my gemstone ordered online?

Can I return my gemstones after a trial or using the gemstone?

I have bought a Nine Gems gemstone from a third party jeweler. Is it genuine?

If you have bought a Nine Gems branded gemstone from a third party jeweller, first look for the gemstone certificate provided by the merchant. Nine Gems' report verification system allows you to quickly and conveniently confirm that the information on your report matches what is archived in the Nine Gems report database, irrespective of the place from where you have purchased your gemstone. If you are still dissatisfied, feel free to contact Nine Gems Support. It would be our pleasure to re-verify the gemstone authenticity.

Click here, To verify a Nine Gems Report.

Payments

What are the payment options available?

For Indian Customers:

We accept all major Debit and Credit Cards,

Accept payments through 50+ banks including SBI, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Bank and Yes Bank.

UPI & Bharat QR

Mobile Wallets (Mobikwik, Freecharge, AmazonPay, OlaMoney, PhonePay, JioMoney, AirtelMoney, PayZapp).

For International Customers:

We accept all major debit & credit cards.

We also accept International Wire Transfers, kindly get in touch with our team for details.

Do you accept international credit cards?

Which payment gateways are supported? Are they safe?

Does 9gems.in store my card/bank information?

Privacy & Data Security

Are my login details secured?

Is it safe to use my credit card?

Yes, shopping at 9gems.in is 100% safe. Credit card payments are processed through payment gateway's such as Paypal & Razorpay that interfaces with various banks. These payment Gateway's uses the latest 256-bit SSL verified encryption technology to protect your credit card information. It encrypts your credit card number so that it cannot be read as the information travels over the Internet.
Furthermore, Payment gateway's also asks you to enter the CVV (Credit Verification Value) number on your credit card. This is a 3 digit number which follows your credit card number and is given at the back of the card to ensure that the person entering the card number has the physical plastic card with him/her.
The secure server software (SSL) encrypts all information you enter before it is sent to us. You can always be aware of a secure page by spotting the lock in the bottom status bar of your browser.

Is 9gems.in safety certified for safe browsing?

What information is collected?

We will collect anonymous traffic information from you when you visit our site. We will collect personally identifiable information about you only as part of a voluntary registration process, on-line survey, or contest or any combination thereof. Our advertisers may collect anonymous traffic information from their own assigned cookies to your browser. The Site contains links to other Web sites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of such Web sites which we do not own, manage or control.

How is the information used?

Is my privacy maintained?

FAQ about our Gemstones

Frequently asked questions on Gemstones, Orders, Payments & Security

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